Raul’s story embodies the American dream. He immigrated from Colombia to United States with his parents in 2022 and became JARC Rhode Island’s first graduate. Before joining JARC, Raul faced significant financial struggles. Starting over in an unfamiliar country was already challenging, compounded by transportation issues and the lack of stable income in his household. When asked why he joined JARC, Raul simply said he wanted to “change his life.” Raul joined JARC’s Computer Numerical Control (CNC) program, and his previous experience in manufacturing and blueprints filled him with hope for a promising new career.
”"Since I started the program, I’ve become more confident in talking to others. Now, I feel like I have more opportunities and doors opening for me. I’m unstoppable.”
Raul
”I wanted to change my life
Throughout his time in the program, JARC provided employment coaching, financial coaching, and car repairs to address Raul’s transportation issues. He received certificates in OSHA 10, CMfgA, and NIMS Milling. Raul completed JARC’s program in March 2024. With the support of JARC’s Employment Coach and partners at Polaris, he landed several interviews and received more than four job offers. Shortly after graduation, he accepted a CNC machinist position at East Bay Manufacturers, where he has been employed ever since, earning $21 per hour.
When asked to summarize the JARC program in one sentence, Raul said, “JARC is a big family.” Throughout the program, his self-confidence grew significantly, and he felt that the instructors truly cared about the students. “Since I started the program, I’ve become more confident in talking to others. Now, I feel like I have more opportunities and doors opening for me. I’m unstoppable,” Raul added.
Since graduating from JARC, Raul has continued to learn new skills and is also taking TOEFL classes at Rhode Island College. His goal is to improve his English and return to college to pursue an engineering degree. With his newly acquired skills and confidence, Raul is achieving his dreams every single day. Raul advises anyone considering the program to “do some research about manufacturing, be open to talking to everyone—both classmates and instructors. You can learn from anyone.”
Recent Comments